I am planning a first time cruise to Alaska from Vancouver May 30th roundtrip. Do prices typically go down 90 days before departure? Or should I book now more than 90 days before departure date? I am a real newbie at all of this but am trying to educate myself on cruise purchasing and all that goes with it. I am also considering booking directly with cruiseline versus an outside agent. Is that a good idea? Or are their so many variables you just have to take a wild guess and go for it? Thanks in advance.

For some reason Alaska cruise prices seem to never go down, so if you found one you want to do, I'd book it. If there is a price reduction, you should be able to get any savings, but I wouldn't count on that. I've always used a good cruise travel agent when booking cruises, makes it so much nicer to talk to them if there are and questions or changes that need to be made.

What ship are you looking at. I liked going round trip from Vancouver much better than from Seattle.

If you want a balcony I would reserve something early. They seem to sell out quickly but if you want a window or inside cabin you have more time flexibility. There have been some really cheap inside cabin rates for Alaska this coming season.